Lateral Meniscus Syndrome

The knee joint is formed by the union of two bones, namely the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (lower leg bone). At the junction of these two bones is a cartilage called the meniscus, which acts as a shock absorber. There are two menisci – the lateral and medial menisci. The lateral meniscus is the outer meniscus of the knee joint and gives a cushioning effect during weight bearing activities. Lateral meniscus syndrome is characterized by an injury caused by the tearing of the cartilage tissue or a rare case of a congenital abnormality called a discoid meniscus, which results in knee pain.

Causes

Lateral meniscus syndrome often occurs due to excessive weight bearing and twisting motions to the knee. This occurs usually due to sports activities such as football, basketball and snow skiing which require a lot of changes in directions and twisting movements. It can also occur due to the gradual wear and tear of tissues that occurs over time. As you grow older, degenerative changes may occur in the knee joint, causing injury with even small movements. The congenital abnormality, discoid meniscus, is more prone to injuries while performing twisting activities.

Diagnosis

A thorough medical history and physical examination is done by your doctor to diagnose lateral meniscus syndrome. Other imaging techniques such as X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are ordered to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Lateral meniscus syndrome is initially treated with rest, ice, anti-inflammatories, and avoidance of aggravating activities. If these conservative measures fail, other options include:

Physical Therapy: helps to optimize the healing process. This treatment includes soft tissue massage, use of crutches, electrotherapy (use of electrical energy for healing), hydrotherapy (use of water for treatment), ice or heat treatment, and progressive exercises to enhance strength, balance and flexibility of the knee joint. Physical therapy is recommended before surgery as many patients will have resolution of symptoms.

Surgery: Certain meniscal injuries may require surgery, especially in cases where there is catching, locking, and/or giving way of the knee that does not respond to physical therapy. Surgery for this condition is performed with knee arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgery that involves the removal or repair of the torn cartilage. The surgery is performed via small incisions through which an arthroscope and other surgical instruments are inserted.

Recovery

If you have a minor lateral meniscus syndrome that is managed conservatively you can return to sports activities in 2 to 4 weeks. If your condition is treated surgically, it will take about 4 to 8 weeks for you to fully recover. Your leg will be placed in a soft bandage wrap or brace, and you may be prescribed crutches to help you walk.